May Overview
In certain years early and mid-May can remain relatively dry, however by the latter part of the month the rainy season is all but guaranteed to be under way across Laos.
Temperatures remain high (Luang Prabang & Vientiane avg temp: 27°C, further south avg temp: 29°C) and because of this the rain is usually short lived and quickly replaced by blue skies and brilliant sunshine.
(- continued:) May Overview
In the south the rain can last longer and be more constant. Despite the rain May is a great month to visit Laos as plenty of sunshine is still expected and the visitor numbers are lower than previous months.
Slash & Burn
During April and May you may witness the effects of 'slash and burn' farming, unfortunately practiced throughout much of Asia. New ground is cleared in February and, once dry, any wood and bush not required is burnt. Fires are lit across the country and particularly in rural regions this can create a hazy effect at times.